This Turkish dip happens to be one of my all time favorite mezza, right after homemade hummus! It is smoky , packs a real flavor punch with layers of herbs, nutty walnuts, sweetness from the sundried tomatoes and smokiness from the pepper. I love this on pita bread or with pita chips, as a dip with baby carrots or cucumbers, it is heavenly with lavash crackers, you can also use it as a topping for pizza or manakeesh.

This spread plays on the same flavor notes as Muhammara but the flavors here are more intense because there is no bread crumbs to dilute them . I also love the refreshing herb and spice notes in this Turkish spread that are missing or less pronounced in Muhammara

Instead of ranting about the exams or the weather, I thought I would start today’s post with something inspirational. I think that we could all use a few tips when it comes to turning our days from “just OK” to amazing!

After last week’s post I received so many comments, messages and emails and I am truly at a loss for words. The kindness, concern and compassion that you have all showed was heartwarming and I deeply appreciate it. I am fine. I know so many of you were concerned that I sounded depressed or worse yet, desperate but I really wasn’t. I was just venting and I really appreciate the fact that you listened. Thank you.

In the Middle East, breakfast is a big deal, especially on the weekend. Trust me, we take the most important meal of the day to a whole new level. It is almost a fiesta of flavors, colors and textures. If you have never started your day, Middle Eastern style, you are in for a treat!

I know there are people who love it in salads, in soups, sauteed with garlic but I am definitely not one of them. I am the one you see at the herb stand rubbing leaves of parsley between my fingertips, smelling them just to make sure I did not pick up coriander by mistake lol.